What Will I need?

What does Electronic Prescription Service mean?

Electronic Prescription Service, or EPS for short, is a new service provided by the NHS. The service allows your GP to send your prescription(-s) electronically from their computer to your chosen pharmacy.

This means that you don’t need a paper copy of your prescription. As it is sent by your GP electronically, you don’t need to collect the prescription from your GP in person.

Why should I use EPS?

For you as a patient, changing from the traditional prescription process to the new Electronic Prescription Service will bring 3 main benefits:

You can save time

You can save money

Less visits to your GP

Using EPS means that you don’t have to visit your GP every time you need a new prescription. By choosing, in other words nominating a pharmacy, you will also benefit from getting your medicines delivered to your home or work address.

EPS and repeat prescriptions

EPS is particularly useful if you have a stable condition which requires a repeat prescription.

Repeat prescriptions are normally for patients with long term or chronic conditions. These can range from diabetes and arthritis to mental illness. About 15 million people in England have a long term condition. If you are currently using a repeat prescription service, then the EPS could be beneficial to you.

Can I use EPS for my prescriptions?

EPS is recommended to patients who have a stable condition and:

Collect their medicine from the same place most of the time.

Already use a repeat prescription service

Doesn’t want to, or find it difficult to regularly visit their GP for prescriptions

The EPS may not be suitable for patients who doesn't get prescriptions very often and/or pick their medicines up from different places.

Are you still unsure whether EPS is right for you? Call us and we will help you find out.

How do I start the Electronic Prescription Service?

You can get started by choosing, also known as nominating, the place you wish to have your prescription sent to. The place can be:

A physical or online based pharmacy, such as NHL Pharmacy

A dispensing appliance contractor (if you use one)

Your dispensing GP practice (if you are eligible)

If you would like to nominate NHL Pharmacy, click here to apply through our website any time. You can also nominate our pharmacy by calling us on 01695 474433. We are open 9am - 6pm, Monday - Friday.

What does “nominate a pharmacy” mean?

“Nominating a pharmacy” simply means choosing the pharmacy you would like to have your electronic prescription sent to. The nominated pharmacy will receive the prescription from your GP, and prepare your medication before sending it out to your chosen address.

If you choose NHL Pharmacy as your nominated pharmacy, NHL Pharmacy will prepare your medication and send it out to you when you need it. You will also get access to our professional pharmacy team for any questions you may have.

Can I change a nominated pharmacy?

Yes you can.

Let your GP know If you don’t want your prescription to be sent electronically. If you want to change or cancel your current nomination, simply speak to any pharmacist or dispensing appliance contractor that offers EPS, or your GP practice. Let them know before your next prescription is due or your prescription may be sent to the wrong place.

How can I find out if I have already nominated a pharmacy?

To check which your currently nominated pharmacy is, ask any pharmacy to check for you.

Who will see my details?

EPS is a secure and confidential service. Your electronic prescription will only be seen by the same people that can already see your current paper prescriptions (GP practices, pharmacies and NHS prescription payment and fraud agencies).

What information will I need to provide?

To register and nominate a pharmacy or a dispensing appliance contractor, you will need to provide your personal details, including name, address and contact details. It only takes a few minutes to complete the application form, and you can change or cancel your nomination any time.

Do I have to pay for using EPS?

No, you don't have to pay anything extra to use EPS. The service is provided and offered by NHS.

Do I need to pay to get my medicine delivered?

No, your medicine will be delivered to your chosen address for free.

Can I choose or change the delivery address of my medicine?

Yes you can. You can choose to have your medicine delivered to an address of your choice, for example you home or work address. Simply let your nominated pharmacy know your preferred delivery address.